Press Release

The Patrick-Murray Administration today announced $64.5 million in affordable housing resources and tax credits directed to support the construction of 25 rental developments in 15 communities across Massachusetts. The projects will create an estimated 1,500 construction jobs, continuing the Administration's record investment in infrastructure projects that are helping Massachusetts recover from the recession faster than most states.

"I am proud to support public-private partnerships that advance construction projects across Massachusetts, put people to work and contribute to the economic vitality of our communities," said Governor Deval Patrick. "We want Massachusetts to be a place where people put down roots, raise their families and do business, and that's why expanding affordable housing opportunities remains a top priority."

"Investing in job creation and affordable housing in communities across the Commonwealth will strengthen neighborhoods and regional economies," said Lieutenant Governor Murray.

The developments will create or preserve 1,071 rental units, 977 of which will be affordable to low and moderate income working families and individuals -- including approximately 190 for families and individuals transitioning from homelessness. Funding from today's announcement will support projects in: Acton, Arlington, Beverly, Boston, Cambridge, Chicopee, Danvers, Gloucester, Lee, Lunenburg, Mashpee, New Bedford, Somerville, Springfield and Worcester.

"This investment will put 1,500 construction workers back on the job and provide affordable housing to families that need it most," said U.S. Senator John Kerry.

"Funding for over 1,000 affordable housing options and the resulting 1,500 construction jobs is great news for the Commonwealth," said U.S. Senator Scott Brown. "Infrastructure projects like this are deserving of high praise, as many families will have a roof over their heads, and many more will earn a paycheck."

Since the beginning of their first term, Governor Patrick and Lieutenant Governor Murray have worked with the Legislature and Congress to direct close to $700 million in federal and state tax credits and state housing program subsidies to projects that improve the state's affordable housing stock, create jobs and build stronger communities. These investments have generated more than 14,000 jobs and 10,000 housing units, 9,000 of which are affordable.

"This investment in affordable housing will help expand access to quality rental units for families and individuals, as well as for people transitioning from homelessness. It will also create jobs, making an impact on the local economy," said Congressman Michael Capuano.

"I'm pleased that here in Southeastern Massachusetts we have had a strong, cooperative relationship between federal, state and local governments in order to support affordable housing in our communities," said Congressman Barney Frank.

"While Massachusetts is recovering faster than most states, the construction industry and working families still need support in these tough times. I applaud Governor Patrick and Lieutenant Governor Murray's award to Arlington. This funding will put tools in the hands of our workers, roofs over the heads of our families, and advance community development throughout the Bay State," said Congressman Edward J. Markey.

"Creating safe and affordable housing opportunities for all of our residents is something we must always be looking to do, but this effort takes on additional urgency during difficult economic periods where increasing numbers of people are at risk," said Congresswoman Niki Tsongas. "These funds released today will help Acton residents find an affordable place to live while simultaneously creating jobs in the community."

"These investments will help get people working -- particularly those feeling the effects of what has been called the "Blue Collar Depression,' " Massachusetts House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. "This represents another step forward for the Massachusetts economy and will help families find needed-housing."